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Washington University Experience | NEURODEGENERATION | Anti-NMDA Receptor (Paraneoplastic) Encephalitis | 3A00 (Case 3) History
Case 3 History ---- This 18 year old girl presented with psychiatric symptoms including episodes of irritability and lack of concern that were suspicious for depression. Workup revealed the presence of IgG anti-NMDA receptor antibodies with encephalitis associated with an ovarian teratoma. Following surgery for a mature ovarian teratoma she received plasmapheresis, IVIG and high dose steroids. Her rehabilitation course was marked by improvement in her mental status after taking Zolpidem, a prescription sedative-hypnotic medication used for the short-term treatment of insomnia. She was discharged home earlier than her presumed date of discharge due to the improvement in her mental status on Zolpidem and was weaned completely off the Zolpidem three weeks after discharge. Her mother reported mood elevation and noted her daughter’s plans to attend college.
